9 Ways to Stay Safe in Beach Waters This Summer

In this photo taken, Tuesday, July 7, 2015,beachgoers avoid the ocean on a beautiful summer day in Avon, N.C. ?In a 28-day span, eight people have been bitten by sharks in N.C., with three of the attacks happening on the barrier islands of the Outer Banks. (AP Photo/Tamara Lush)

You may have seen news reports about increased shark attacks this summer. If you’re taking a family vacation to the beach in the coming weeks, and you’re worried about letting your children swim in the ocean, check this advice from Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Service before you go:
1. Don’t go alone in the water. People swimming by themselves are more at risk.
2. Stay out of the water at high-risk hours. Sharks feed during the pre-dawn and twilight hours, so avoid swimming and being mistaken for food.
3. Check for scrapes and cuts before entering the water. Sharks can detect the scent of blood from far away.
4. Take off the bling. Sharks perceive shiny jewelry and clothes the same way they perceive fish scales that glisten in the water. You don’t want to look like a shark’s main source of food.
5. Visit designated beaches. Every shore is not appropriate for swimming. If you see diving seabirds or bait fishes, there is most likely feeding activity in that area.
6. Don’t let your pets in the water. Their erratic movements can be mistaken for bait fish.
7. Be careful around sandbars and steep drop-offs. These are popular spots for sharks.
8. Swim when lifeguards are present. They are trained to deal with water related emergencies.
9. Do not enter the water if sharks have been spotted — just don’t. Reported by PR Newswire.